By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 20: Sarawak could soon gain a direct seat at the prestigious International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI), Malta, with its Director Professor Dr Norman A. Martínez Gutiérrez assuring that one place would be reserved exclusively for the State.
According to a press release, Minister for Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin yesterday (Sept 19) received a courtesy visit from Dr Martínez, during which both sides explored opportunities for Sarawak officers to join IMLI’s internationally recognised programmes in maritime law.
Currently, Malaysia already has access to IMLI’s programmes under a national quota allocated through the Marine Department of Malaysia (JLM), as the country is a donor member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Each donor state is entitled to one seat per year in either IMLI’s 14-month master’s programme or its three-month specialised short courses—a benefit Malaysia has been actively using by sending participants annually.
“During the discussion, Dr Martínez outlined two possible pathways for Sarawakian participation: through Malaysia’s national quota under the JLM, or directly as Sarawak nominees, with his personal assurance that one seat would be reserved for Sarawak,” the press release said.
Lee welcomed the invitation, stressing that building knowledge in maritime law will support Sarawak’s aspirations to enhance its regulatory capacity, governance and role in international maritime affairs.
Established under the IMO, IMLI is globally recognised for producing maritime lawyers and experts who have gone on to play significant roles in international shipping, maritime administration and policy formulation. All of its courses are accredited by the IMO.
The courtesy visit marks Sarawak’s latest effort to expand international partnerships in strengthening its maritime ambitions. – DayakDaily
